Twitter Inc users have voted for Elon Musk to step down as the CEO of Twitter. About 58% of voters cast votes in favour of Musk stepping down from the role as head of the social platform.
If Musk heeds the results, it would put an end to his 53 chaotic days at the helm. Musk is also the chief executive officer of Tesla Inc and Space Exploration Technologies Corp. He acquired Twitter on October 27th and due to this acquisition, the stock of Tesla, his most valuable holding, has sunk by about a third.
There is no clear replacement for Musk at Twitter as most of the top executives were either fired or they have resigned over the past few months. Musk is looking for investors at $54.20 a share, the same price that he paid when he took over Twitter for $44 billion in October.
“Padmavati – an avatar” is a solo operatic thematic production of a temple dancer, who is the cynosure of the immortal classic “Gita Govindam” by 12th century poet Jayadeva. Bharatanatyam exponent and scholar Kalaimamani, Ms. Bala Devi Chandrashekar is a leading culture ambassador of India with over 300 performances across 30 countries.
Sringara rasa is the sensual thread of this love poem that is woven around Padmavati and Jayadeva juxtaposed with the amorous intimacy of Lord Krishna and Rādha. Opening with the auspicious scene of Padmavati and Jayadeva’s marriage in ragam harikambodhi, during the saptapadhi ritual jayadeva is reminded of the verse Dehi padapallavam udharam priye, as if the Lord asking Rādha to place her foot on his head to remove the suffering due to “Virahatapa”. Their Grhasthaashram’ life revolves around indulging in dance and music, this is brought out in sollukattu (L is light) and swaras in ragam kapi and adi thalam.
“Padmavati – An Avatar” is woven into four acts, SAALOKHYAM – being in His world, SAAROOPYAM – taking His form, SAAMEEPYAM – approaching Him and finally SAAYUJYAM – becoming one with the beloved.
Depicted in this act is the rustic episode of the flower vendor’s bhakti, the lord is pleased when she sings beautifully the Gita Govindam, while making the garlands for Lord Jagannath. The Lord puts His ring in the flower vendor’s basket as a blessing. The flower vendor is accused of stealing and gets released when Lord Krishna appears in the King’s dream explaining how the ring came into the vendors basket.
The Gita Govindam based on Brahmavaivarta purana, is a suddhaprabandha, nrita geya kavya of 12 Sargas bearing the dwadashaakshari mantra (twelve syllable mantra) of lord krishna comprising of 24 Astapadhis. The sublime sentiment of devotion is treated through love or “Maduuryapremabhava” through “Nyaka-nayakibhava” as “SringaraMahaKavya”. The agony of separation from a lover is predominantly depicted by Padmavati through three major characters, Lord Krishna, Rādha, and a sakhi intellectually perceived as a “Guru”.
Event Details: Venue: Bhavan’s TAG Auditorium (Bhavan’s Rajaji Vidyashram Complex), Kilpauk Garden Road, Kilpauk, Chennai – 600 010. Date: Sunday, 25th December 2022 Time: 7.00 pm
Lionel Messi, considered to be one of the world’s greatest footballers, led Argentina to victory in the finals of the FIFA World Cup over France. The 35 year old scored 2 goals in the thrilling match.
In his final World Cup appearance Messi scored twice as Argentina battled to a 3-3 draw in extra-time before prevailing on penalties. Argentina went on to defeat France on penalties triumphing 4-2.
Messi has been described as” a gift from the footballing Gods.” Messi’s career had a perfect fairytale ending. There were nearly 89,000 people watching the match inside Lusail Stadium. The crowd cheered for every pass and every shot.
Argentina won the World Cup in 1986 when Diego Maradona carried the team to victory. This is Argentina’s third title and the first for Messi and his last chance to prove it.
Sargam Koushal represented India at the Mrs World contest in Las Vegas. She won the title and brought back the crown to India after 21 long years. There were contestants from 63 countries and Sargam emerged the clear winner.
She burst into tears after she was crowned the winner. Sargam hails from the state of Jammu and Kashmir. She is a post graduate in English literature. She previously worked as a teacher in Vizag.
Mrs World is the first beauty pageant for married women. It was initially called Mrs Woman of the World and from 1988 it was changed to Mrs World. India won the title only once way back in 2001 when Dr. Aditi Govitrikar bagged the crown. Dr Aditii served as a judge for the contest this year and congratulated Sargam for bringing back the crown to India.
Advocate, Columnist, Author & Former NDTV 24×7 Resident Editor Sanjay Pinto made a courtesy call on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K.Stalin at the Secretariat on Friday to present his books, including “High & Law” and “My NDTV Days”.
Emerging from the meeting, Sanjay Pinto exclaimed: “What a delightfully warm & cordial meeting with the Hon’ble CM. Nostalgic reminiscences of my interaction in the past as a Law Student when he was the Mayor and later during my NDTV innings. I got the CM’s good wishes as I inch towards my 300th legal column. Impressed with the courteous reception & politeness of the officials on duty from the CM’s Office, DIPR and police.”
Dr. K. Jayanth Murali (IPS) was proud to launch three of his latest books – ‘42 Mondays, Soliloquies on Future Policing & Enkindling the Endorphins of Endurance’ on Friday, 16th December 2022, at the Police Officer’s Mess, Egmore. The books were launched in the presence of Dr. C. Sylendra Babu (IPS), Dr. Walter Devaram, (Retired IPS) and Thiru. Shankar Jiwal, (IPS)Spe.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. K. Jayanth Murali (IPS) extended his appreciation to his fellow officers and colleagues, “I thank all fellow officers who are present here for the launch of my three published books. A special thanks to Dr. C. Sylendra Babu (IPS., DGP&HoPF TN), Dr. Walter Devaram, (Retired IPS) and Thiru. Shankar Jiwal, (IPS., DGP/COP Chennai City) for launching my books. It will be a great pleasure for my readers to experience my latest books. I am also announcing ‘Marathon in Tamil’ and ‘A Random Pot-Pourri’. to my latest collection. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
Dr. Walter Devaram, (Retired IPS) said “42 Mondays”, “Soliloquies on Future Policing” and “Enkindling the Endorphins of Endurance” were the books launched. “42 Monday opened my eyes to the incredible advances in technology. It will definitely help the reader get an insight into and understanding of the new technologies that are changing modern-day policing.”
The event was attended by high-ranked officers from India. Dr. K. Jayanth Murali (IPS) also announced his new books ‘Marathon in Tamil’ and ‘A Random Pot-Pourri’.
About the Books:
“42 Mondays” embarks on a cool ride that will not just blow you away but also take the lid off some disruptive emerging technologies that promise kick-ass capabilities for the police to combat crime and criminals. As you journey through the book, encounter some cool emerging technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, 3D Printing, DNA Profiling, Genetic Genealogy, Virtual Reality, Brain Fingerprinting, Nanotechnology, Quantum Computing, Synthetic Biology and more, waft from the pages of this brilliant book.
“Soliloquies on Future Policing” is a book on Advanced technologies are coming at us in hordes and faster than the speed at which law enforcement agencies can embrace. Jayanth Murali, the best-selling author of 42 MONDAYS, with his explosive insights based on a long career in law enforcement, takes the readers on a spellbinding tour through the disruptive world of new emerging technologies.
“Enkindling the Endorphins of Endurance” speaks on humans being are the best endurance runners on the planet. Science reveals that we evolved by running long distances. Regrettably, instead of advancing, we have become a sedentary generation beset by lifestyle diseases, depression, and anxiety hooked to alcohol and drugs instead of reclaiming our high on endorphins.
British High Commissioner Alexander Ellis stated that Indians can now obtain tourist visas to go to the UK within a fortnight. This signals the end of delayed processing of UK visas for Indians who can now travel to the U.K. without any hassles.
The High Commissioner broke this good news on his Twitter account and requested those applying for visas to provide correct information at the time of applying. According to him, there is a big intake of student visas for the student session starting in January and he urged students to apply quickly as there is a big demand.
Earlier this month, Indian High Commissioner to the U.K. Vikram Doraiswami had announced that the e-visa facility for British citizens travelling to India will be resumed.
Inspired by the magic of the festive season, Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park presents the magic of the season with a Charming “7 course menu” at On The Rocks featuring all the traditional favorites for the Christmas Eve Dinner on the 24th December between 7 pm to 11 pm. The chefs at Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park are ready to spoil you with delectable menus.
The season for feasting as families, friends and food lovers come together. Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park “Poolside Christmas Brunch” a festive fairy tale extravaganza to celebrate the joyous time with family and friends. Discover traditional Christmas favorites specially curated by the chef team of Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park on 25th December between 12 30 pm to 3 30 pm.
Indulge in lavish Christmas feasts with traditional festive favourites and delightful gourmet presentations with signature live Turkey station, Global grills, Confit duck agnigoti, Artisan cheese platter, Plum pudding and many more from the kitchens. Enjoy the buffet with a free flow of premium cocktails and wine.
Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Park will never miss to entertain the kids, so this time they have a special games corner arranged and the guests can enjoy the delightful musical evening with live band and so much more, to do the Christmas only at Crowne Plaza Chennai Adyar Part.
Details: 24th Dec || 7 pm- 11 pm || INR 3250 + taxes per person
25th Dec || 12 30 pm – 3 30 pm || INR 2950 + taxes per person
Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay upholds tradition and heritage in their statement “A Timeless Heritage Wrapped in Luxury Awaits You” and welcomed the holiday season with their Annual ‘Tree Lighting Ceremony & Celebration’ on Friday, December 16th, 2022, at the Heritage Lobby of Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay Mamallapuram.
The ceremony started with Carols lead by the choir of United Pentecostal Church and then with a flip of the switch by Senior General Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay, Mr. Shabin Sarvotham and special guests. Wearing their Christmas hats & safety face masks, folks of Chennai welcomed the festive season by lighting up the 10ft Christmas tree and the resort welcoming the season of joy and exuberance!
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Shabin Sarvotham, General Manager, Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay said “As we open our hearts this time of year, let us remember that the holidays are a time for peace, love and hope, it is a season to rejoice with our loved ones and to signify this harmony we at Radisson Blu Resort Temple Bay commence this season with our guests and staff with our tree lighting ceremony.”
Mr.Ameet Raj Kundu, Cluster Commercial Head for Radisson GRT added “The countdown to the lighting of the tree is something we look forward to each year; The United Pentecostal Church Carols are an experience one must sing along in! As your host we commend you to a season of joy filled with merry experiences around you, starting with the tree lighting ceremony.”
After the Tree Lighting Ceremony, all guests are invited to indulge in snacks and cocktails to begin rejoicing in the happiness of the future for the beginning of the New Year. The ceremony showcased the season’s freshly baked rich plum cakes, Christmas goodies, and delicious Christmas desserts.
Saudamini Pethe has become the first hearing impaired advocate who enrolled with the Bar Council in Delhi. This 45 year old lady will be arguing her cases in courts through the medium of an Indian Sign Language interpreter. She will be an inspiration to the hearing impaired youth in the country to join the legal profession.
She suffered hearing loss at the age of 9 after being infected with meningitis. Her aim is to use her education to advocate for the rights of the hearing impaired. She wishes to spread awareness and empower the hearing impaired youth to join the legal profession and do their bit towards society.
Saudamini is currently the director at All India Foundation of Deaf Women and a trustee at the Access Mantra Foundation. She completed her law degree at the Institute of Law and Research, Faridabad in August this year and got enrolled in November.
Leo Varadkar who is of Indian origin will take over as Prime Minister of Ireland for the second time on December 17, 2022. He is mixed race, openly gay and one of Ireland’s youngest leaders. He was a fresh face when he took the helm of governing Fine Gael in 2017.
However, after two and a half years, it was claimed that he had lost his shine. He was born in Dublin to an Irish mother who worked as a nurse and an Indian immigrant father who is a doctor. He obtained a medical degree from Trinity College, Dublin and went into general practice but later entered into politics.
In 2015, when Ireland legalised same-sex marriage, Varadkar came out openly as gay. His partner Matthew Barrett is a cardiologist. This revelation earned him praise from all quarters of Irish politics. He has been considered an effective communicator who led the country into the first lockdown which was the longest and most stringent imposed in Europe.
Two trains arrived. And he stood on what was arguably then a less preferred platform. To an academic topper in the coveted B Tech Electronics & Communications Engineering stream at IIT Madras, plum corporate campus placement offers came on a platter. Here the starting salary was probably higher than a close to retirement take-home package in government service, where selection was fiercely competitive.
For a young Siddique, many birds in the hand were not as much as an elusive one in the bush! The guaranteed lure of big bucks at MNCs was far from irrepressible. Spurning the most lucrative offers, as the private sector was not his “calling”, he also ducked the “general trend” and peer pressure of heading to the United States for a Master’s degree in a top notch University. A one-track mind ensured that he stayed in India to “directly contribute to the country through public service.”
(Pic: M.A.Siddique, IAS, MD – Metro Rail)
Photography: Gurunath Prabhu
Armed with “perseverance and hard work”, these twin qualities that were “inculcated deeply during preparation for IIT JEE and subsequently during the B Tech course in IIT Madras” he treated the Civil Services Exam akin to “an Olympic event” and raced to the All India No.2 rank in 1995. After 27 years in the IAS, this officer swears that he hasn’t had “any reason so far to regret that decision.”
The son of an Indian Railways Chief Administrative Officer M.S.Sulaiman and home-maker Hameeda Banu who raised him “with deep affection” and motivated him to “stay firmly on the track of public service”, this senior 1995 batch IAS officer now heads Chennai Metro Rail as its Managing Director. Giving credit to “an outstanding team of officers” who usher in “excellent work culture” Siddique takes pride in “leading the team for early execution of the construction of 118.9 kms of new lines at a cost of Rs 63,246 Crore” and adds that undertaking this massive task with “minimum public inconvenience” is a top priority. As is “operating services in 54 kms of Metro Rail lines in two corridors.” An important thrust area is providing a “safe and reliable travel experience” to passengers in the face of “rapidly rising ridership.”
Nascent years in the IAS saw Siddique posted as Collector of Dharmapuri & Sivaganga districts. “I still reminisce the contribution made for Irular tribes of the combined Dharmapuri district during my two year tenure.” The district was later bifurcated into Dharmapuri and Krishnagiri.
(Image Courtesy: Chennai Metro Rail Limited)
Despite his tech educational background, Siddque’s career trajectory reveals a strong focus on public finance for which he developed a penchant early in his career. “I had felt like a fish in water from the very first day I was posted in the Finance department as Under Secretary – Budget. I have been fortunate to have outstanding senior officers as my mentors and guides. It also goes without saying that I had to do a lot of reading to learn about public finance and economics. My long tenure in the Finance department in Tamil Nadu at various levels including Secretary Expenditure in the Union Ministry of Finance helped in gaining expertise.”
A quest to explore new domains, led him to take up deputation in the Finance and Home Ministries. “I gained knowledge of policy making and legislative work and could closely observe the functioning of the Government at the highest levels.”
Back in his home cadre, Siddique helmed the Commercial Taxes & Revenue Administration departments and surmounted several challenges. “We could establish data analytics based tax administration and pilot faceless system of tax administration for GST. In the revenue department, we could make improvements in citizen services delivery system. The key challenge in making systemic changes in large departments was to enlist key stake holders for making active contribution to the change management process.”
The roller coaster ride in the bureaucracy was only to be expected. At one level, relatively “light or sideline assignments” in the Museum & Archives turned out to be enriching. The museum posting, for instance, gave him exposure to the world of arts, history and archaeology. “I could invest spare time available during these assignments for reading and to pursue other interests on wide ranging subjects including economics, history, architecture and archaeology.” While heading the department of Archives, Siddique found time to officiate as Senior Team Manager for the Indian Badminton team for All England Championship and Swiss Open in 2015 and be part of the Governing body of the Premier Badminton League.
Working through the most hectic assignments through his service life was possible “due to the mental and physical relaxation through my daily routine of playing badminton. It has been the surest way of unwinding and combating work pressure.”
The self-effacing and soft spoken officer recognises his wife Fathima as “a strong pillar of support through the ups and downs of public service.” Ever ready to pack their bags whenever his posting and stations changed, she runs the home ministry with aplomb. The couple have two sons. Afraz, a budding lawyer, is just as adept in the badminton court. The younger lad Faiyaz is an academically bright eleventh grade student.
For now, the ‘shuttle’ service is on. If it’s not the rail, it’s a rally!
(Sanjay Pinto is an Advocate practising at the Madras High Court, Columnist, Author of 4 Books & Former Resident Editor – NDTV 24×7. His 4th book ‘High & Law’ published by Thomson Reuters is also available on amazon)
Your favourite Fox in town has got an irresistible spread for you to celebrate this Christmas with your dear ones
Our Christmas special brunch has been curated by our chef for you to indulge in some traditional must-haves as well as some global favourites paired perfectly with your favourite pint of craft beer and cocktails.
The menu includes dishes like Duck Breast Cut with Spiced Plum Sauce, Roast Turkey with Caramelised Onion Sauce, American Corn with Bell Pepper Salad, Couscous Cheese Galouti, Kung Napling Pao, Chilly Basil Noodles, Chicken Thai Yellow Curry, Mutton Laal Maas, to name just a few dishes from the spread.
The buffet also includes Christmas special desserts, Clay Pot Cold Rice Kheer, Shahi Tukda,to end the meal on a sweet note
Venue: Fox in the Field – Nexus Shantiniketan Mall, Whitefield
Price : INR 1499/- + applicable charges
Date and Timing: Dec 25th, 2022 | 12:00 PM – 3:30 PM
For further details, contact: +91-8970707999, +91-8971433379
Udhayanidhi Stalin, the son of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin was sworn in as a Minister in the Tamil Nadu Cabinet today. He is an MLA from Chepauk-Thiruvallikeni Assembly constituency.
According to sources, Udhayanidhi is referred to as the ‘rising son’ of The DMK and is likely to be made the state sports minister. He was administered the oath of office by Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi at Raj Bhavan. The 45 year old Udhayanidhi is also the youth wing secretary of the DMK. He has earned the appreciation of party leaders for taking the youth wing to great heights.
However, the opposition party in the state, AIADMK has termed the elevation of Udhayanidhi s ”family politics”. In reply, Udhayanidhi stated that the people of his constituency can decide on this based on his report card.
According to a report, footballer Lionel Messi will be retiring after the FIFA World Cup and the finals will be his final game for Argentina. The 35 year old has scored five goals in the tournament so far and has become the leading goalscorer for Argentina in World Cups by surpassing the ten goal record held by Gabriel Batistuta. Messi has scored 11 World Cup goals so far.
Team Argentina arrived in Qatar as one of the tournament favourites but they lost their opening game against Saudi Arabia 1-2. They were unbeaten in 36 matches before this loss. They defeated Croatia in the semi-final. The two-time champions will now take on either Morocco or holders France in the final that will be played at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday.
